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Should I save them?

SYinUSA, GA zone 8

12 years ago

I found several containers of hydrangeas on the clearance rack at Lowe's, marked $5 (originally $25). Needless to say, they look a little rough. I obviously want to avoid diseased plants, but what specifically should I look for and avoid in hydrangeas? I think the varieties were Endless Summer Original, Invincibelle, and maybe a Forever & Ever.

If the plants are just a little worse for the wear from having been over- or under-watered and are salvageable, I don't mind putting in a little bit of extra work to make sure they survive - especially for 80% off!

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Comments (4)

luis_pr
12 years ago
I would look for problems related to insufficient watering. The worst shrubs could be saved by dunking them in water until air bubbles stop and the root ball begins to absorb water again. But for $5 only, the shrub would have to look really reeeeeaaaally bad to not chance it. Dead looking blooms can be replaced even if I have to wait a year. Leaves can regrow. (most) Fungal infections can be dealt with. Damage to roots is the one that could kill the deal but how can one tell????

Do be aware that some of those shrubs could be mislabeled. If they have blooms, see if the blooms resemble somewhat the blooms for that variety.

It is too hot to plant them over here as I do not like to be running around watering when the temps are above 100 daily. So I would wait until cooler temps arrive. You could opt to do the same while giving them TLC or you could plant them now (still give them TLC until August is over with).
SYinUSA, GA zone 8
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks Luis! That's what I was hoping to hear! I'm new to gardening in general so wasn't sure how to identify a deal-breaking fungal infection. I didn't have a chance to inspect the plants closely, but at first glance I didn't notice any major fungus problems. Thanks again!
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hokierustywilliamsbu
12 years ago
The big boxes can have great deals-tlc and you will be please next year...
SYinUSA, GA zone 8
Original Author
12 years ago
Looks like somebody had more confidence than me and snapped them up. I went back today and all the clearance hydrangeas were gone :( I bought three homigos instead. Luckily I've got plenty of room for hydrangeas, so I hold out hope for bargains later in the summer!

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